Building a Texas sled 18 (inverted V) need advice on improving turning ability

[Vundu]

Hi, I'm currently building a modified version of the Boat Builders Central Texas Sled (TX18). I've increased all dimensions by 10%, so now have a 20ft boat (designer has approved this). The hull is heavier than designed due to more glass layers and the consol design. I'm planning to run a 140HP Suzuki (at our altitude it's closer to 115hp I'm told).

As the hull is very flat towards the stern I am beginning to worry about the possibility of blowouts if I need to make an emergency turn at speed.

I am looking for advice and if this is likely on an inverted V, and if so what might I do to modify the hull to reduce the chances of this happening. I was considering a pair, or more, of strakes, but am unsure the best approach to this. Length, positioning etc.

Any help and advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[DogCavalry]

I suggest you build and try it before modifying anything. Explore the performance and limitations of your boat before fixing a problem that probably doesn't exist. Aggressive steering at high speed is dangerous in every vehicle there is.

 

[fallguy]

DC brings a good point. If you turn sharp enough to need strakes for tracking; you are probably driving poorly.

 

[DogCavalry]

Certainly worthwhile for you to read the sea sled information thread.

 

[Barry]

Probably best to call Boat Builders Central and find out if they have had any issues.

 

[fallguy]

Probably best to call Boat Builders Central and find out if they have had any issues.

He got crickets there. I told him there was a Seasled cult here.

 

[DogCavalry]

I have now done (well actually it was Bluebell- I chickened out like Trump) wot hard turns. The stern swung around perfectly while the bow stayed connected. 180° turn in about 3 boat lengths, from 31 knots.

 

[fallguy]

I would be terrified in a cat to attempt it. I don’t think it’d flip, but cats lean the other way. I can spin it in circles slow, so fast turning is no bueno.

 

[DogCavalry]

I've tried hard turns in my 12 pax water taxi with 440 D6 volvo penta with duoprop outdrive. Pathetic in comparison.

 

[BoatBuildLog]

really interesting build. what part of the turning behavior are you trying to improve most bite in tighter turns or overall stability through the turn ?

 

[DogCavalry]

He asked the question, then left. Fairly common really.

 

[Boat Design Net Moderator]

The distractions of life get in the way too often. The OP saw the replies in 2024, but probably didn't see the August 2026 posts yet. Hopefully we'll see him again soon.
Vundu if you see this, please give an update on how your project is going!

 

[waqas 20]

Dear Dog Cavarly

I am designing a hickman sea sled can we speak

 

[DogCavalry]

Dear Dog Cavarly

I am designing a hickman sea sled can we speak

Certainly.